Animal welfare officers have urged dog owners to take care after reports that a dog was poisoned near Wistaston.

A spokeswoman for the RSPCA confirmed that they had received a report of a dog suffering from suspected poisoning while walking on the Joey the Swan fields in Wistaston, and said that although it was unclear if this was accidental or deliberate, they urged dog owners to take care while out walking.

The spokeswoman said they had received the report on January 2 this year, adding: “It is very concerning to hear about reports of dogs suffering from suspected poisoning while being walked on Joey the Swan fields, in Wistaston.

“It is difficult to know if the dogs are being deliberately poisoned or if it is as a result of something they have accidentally ingested, however we would be extremely concerned if someone is leaving poison out intentionally.

“If you are concerned that your pet may have been poisoned, contact your vet immediately. Signs that your pet could have been poisoned can include depression, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, breathing difficulties, appearing drunk and uncoordinated, and twitching or seizures.

“We urge anyone who has any information about these incidents to contact us on 0300 123 8018.”